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What is the primary function of the renal corpuscle?

  1. Reabsorption of water

  2. Filtration of blood

  3. Concentration of urine

  4. Secretion of hormones

The correct answer is: Filtration of blood

The primary function of the renal corpuscle is filtration of blood. The renal corpuscle is composed of two main structures: the glomerulus, a network of capillaries where the filtration occurs, and Bowman's capsule, which collects the filtrate. During the filtration process, blood pressure forces water, ions, and small molecules from the blood within the glomerulus into Bowman's capsule, resulting in the formation of filtrate. This process is crucial for the formation of urine and is the first step in the kidneys' role of regulating body fluid composition, electrolyte balance, and waste removal. In contrast, reabsorption of water occurs primarily in the renal tubules after filtration has taken place, while concentration of urine and secretion of hormones involve different aspects of kidney function that occur downstream of the renal corpuscle.